Slot Receiver

A narrow notch or groove, as in a keyway in machinery or a slit for coins in a vending machine. Also, a position or time when something can be done.

Unlike the old mechanical slot machines that required players to physically drop coins into them, modern slot games use bill validators and credit meters to accept cash and paper bills as wagers. The machines also feature bright video screens and eye-catching themes. Some even have multiple pay lines and bonus features. Before you play a slot machine, however, be sure to read the pay table. This will tell you what symbols to look for, how much you will win if you land three or more of them, and any special symbols, like the Wild symbol, that may boost your winnings.

Because he’s closer to the middle of the field than outside wide receivers, the Slot receiver needs to be extremely quick and possess top-notch route-running skills. He must master every passing route possible — to the inside and outside, short and deep. On running plays, he must also be able to block effectively, especially on sweeps and slants. In addition, the Slot receiver may need to act as a ball carrier on pitch and end-around plays. He must run his routes in a way that complements the other receivers and confuses the defense. He’s also at a higher risk for injury because of his proximity to the defensive line.